Aare kurunmi kakanfo@AKakanfo
PRESS RELEASE
Firm Rejection of IEYDA’s Position on Alaafin’s Visit to Yoruba Communities in Ilorin
The attention of Think Yoruba First (TYF) organisation worldwide has been drawn to the recent statement by the Ilorin Emirate Youth Development Association (IEYDA) regarding the visit of the Alaafin of Oyo to communities in Ilorin, Jebba, and Shao. We categorically reject the claims and implications contained in that statement.
Let it be clearly stated: Ilorin, Jebba, and Shao are historically Yoruba towns with undeniable cultural, linguistic, and ancestral ties to the Oyo Empire. No modern administrative arrangement or imposed Emirate system can erase or rewrite these historical realities. The continued existence of the Yoruba language, traditions, and cultural identity in these communities stands as clear evidence of this enduring heritage.
The visit of the Alaafin of Oyo to these communities is entirely legitimate and firmly grounded in history, culture, and tradition. As a foremost custodian of Yoruba heritage, the Alaafin has every right to engage with Yoruba people wherever they are located. Any attempt to question or restrict this right is not only misguided but constitutes an overreach.
The claim that such a visit requires “official notification or approval” from the Emirate is unacceptable and without basis. The Emirate structure does not possess the authority to regulate the cultural affiliations, traditional relationships, or identity of Yoruba communities. Cultural identity is not subject to approval by any imposed structure.
Think Yoruba First firmly rejects any attempt to use the Emirate system as a basis to dilute, redefine, or subordinate Yoruba identity within its own historical spaces. The Yoruba people of these communities retain the right to maintain their identity, cultural ties, and traditional relationships without interference.
We therefore call on IEYDA to desist from future statements or actions that may be interpreted as interference in Yoruba cultural and traditional matters. Peaceful coexistence requires mutual respect, not the imposition of authority where it does not belong.
Let it be clearly understood that Yoruba people, wherever they are found within Nigeria, remain united by a shared history, culture, and heritage that cannot be altered by administrative or traditional structures imposed over time. Any attempt to do so will be firmly resisted.
Think Yoruba First remains resolute in defending the integrity of Yoruba identity, heritage, and traditional institutions anywhere in the world.
We also state it unequivocally that Ilorin is Yorubaland and will be Yorubaland till eternity.
E-Signed
Think Yoruba First organisation worldwide
